German make, none of which could compare with the latest British type. In his closing remarks Captain Atkins paid a high tribute to the work of the late Lieut.-Colonel E. F. Harrison, who was chief of the Anti-Gas Department up to the time of his death.

STAFFORDSHIRE.-The annual meeting of the North Staffordshire Chemists' Association was held at the Town Hall, Stoke, on October 23, at 3 p.m.-Mr. HODGSON TODD, VicePresident (Burslem), took the place of the President, Mr. Roland Prince (Longcon), who was absent through illness.-Mr. T. BENTLEY, Secretary, reported that the Association had held five meetings during the past year, and had been visited by Sir William Glyn-Jones, Mr. Rowsell (on behalf of the P.A.T.A.), and Mr. Deakin. They had gained two members, two had resigned, and one had died. He had also received an additional subscription of £5 for the War Benevolent Fund. The Ministry of Health had appointed Mr. J. A. Dale (Stoke) to represent pharmacy on the Stoke Insurance Committee in place of the late Mr. Edmund Jones.-Mr. CHALLINOR (Fenton) gave an interesting report of his work, which had been done under difficulties. Although he said that he had narrowly escaped showing an adverse balance, the members showed their confidence and appreciation by unanimously electing him for the coming year. -According to seniority, Mr. Hankinson (Uttoxeter) should have been elected President, but he had written to the Secretary regretting his inability to take office. On a suggestion by Mr. KEMP (Fenton), several names proposed were balloted for, and Mr. Ernest Mellor (Uttoxeter) was elected, Mr. Bloor (Longton) was elected Vice-President, together with Mr. Bentley. This gentleman asking for help in the secretarial work, Mr. Ě. Corner (Hanley) was appointed his assistant. Messrs. Hodgson Todd, Farmer, and Tipper were elected to the Executive Committee. After discussion of the N.H.I. terms, it was proposed by Mr. CORNWELL (Hanley): "That this Association respectfully urges upon the Local Associations Executive Committee the necessity for an increased dispensing fee of at least 50 per cent. on all N.H.I. prescriptions, having regard to the enormously increased cost of living and consequent establishment charges.' Seconded by Mr. CHALLINOR.-Mr. DALE (Stoke), who is a member of the Anti-Profiteering Committee, gave a lucid explanation of how the Committee went to work. He said that their action was most fair.-Mr. MELLOR said that the Association ought to take some action to prevent charges being made against members, and Mr. CORNER suggested that the Association adopt the B. and C.P. price list. The list showed a fair profit, and had been adopted by about 140 Chemists' Associations. This latter fact would carry weight with the Profiteering Committee if their charges were questioned. Apart from that, there was no secret about it, and it could be handed to suspicious customers for inspection; this procedure was usually more satisfactory than talking. The list also was very useful for drawing attention to price alterations, and such a list would put pounds per annum into the pocket of the chemist using it.-Mr. MELLOR said he had used the list, and it was a very good list. Some of the prices were rather higher than they got in their district and some rather lower. But that was only to be expected. After some discussion, Mr. CORNER proposed: "That this Association, in view of complaints which may arise under the Profiteering Act, recommend the adoption by members of the B. and C.P. price list.-Seconded by Mr. T. CORNWELL.-It was arranged that the next annual dinner be held in January next.

TORQUAY.-The quarterly meeting of the Torquay and District Pharmacists' Association was held on October 21, and was one of the most successful and best attended meetings the Association has held.-The SECRETARY apologised for the absence of the President, who had been called out of town at quite short notice. Mr. EVANS, the Vice-President, presided. The agenda, apart from ordinary routine, contained two items which probably accounted for the large attendance-viz., the Profiteering Act and Discussion on Dispensing Prices. The first was dealt with as suggested by the Pharmaceutical Society; a Committee being appointed to assist any member of the craft in every way possible if made the victim of complaint under the Act. -Dispensing Prices: This matter received full sideration, and although opinion on various suggested schemes was not unanimous, eventually a schedule of suggested dispensing fees was drawn up to be submitted to the forthcomin~ county meeting, and a resolution. moved by Mr. MARCH and seconded by Mr. EVANS, "That pricing be based on the following data: (1) A profit of 50 per cent. on cost of drugs, taken from the current price list of a house of repute, and container; (2) an agreed dispensing fee; (3) with the minimum charge of the Minimum Retail Price List."-Mr. R. H. Benson was elected a member. A cordial welcome was extended to Mr. Benson by the Vice-President.

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WALTHAMSTOW.-A well-attended meeting of the Walthamstow pharmacists was held on October 15 (Mr. S. A. B. CHAPMAN in the chair) to discuss the advisability of forming a Local Association. All pharmacists present were strongly in favour of the idea, and a committee was appointed, consisting of Messrs. Chapman, Gaze, Fromow, Swanston, with Mr. E. Willcocks as temporary Secretary, to draw up such rules would be required. These were submitted to a further meeting heid on October 23. At this meeting it was decided to call the Association the Walthamstow Pharmaceutical Association; membership to be open to all pharmacists practising in Walthamstow; subscription to be 10s. 6d. per annum; assistants and apprentices to be admitted as associates; subscription, 2s. 6d. per annum. A. M. Brown was elected President, G. F. Deeth Vice-President, W. E. Swanston Hon. Secretary and Treasurer, and J. O. McGlinchy was appointed as Auditor. The meeting then closed with a hearty vote of thanks to Messrs. Chapman and Deeth, the prime movers in what is hoped will be a very energetic Association.

WARRINGTON.-A meeting of the Manchester, Liverpool, and District group of the National Association of Women Pharmacists was held on October 22 at Warrington-Miss ROBBIE gave an account of the work of a Pricing Bureau, and traced the method of dealing with chemists' Insurance accounts, from the introduction of the Act until the present time. The members present were very interested in the charts used for calculating prices, as well as in hearing of the method of working. Mrs. Knowles kindly provided tea for those present, and arranged for the use of her room for the meeting.

SOCIAL GATHERINGS.

BOURNEMOUTH.-The members of the Bournemouth Chemists' Assistants' Association and of the Bournemouth branch of the National Association of Chemists' Assistants held a successful whist drive on Wednesday evening, October 22, at the Gervis Hall restaurant. Commencing at 7 o'clock, twenty-four hands were played. The winning numbers were very close. The lady winning second ladies" prize and the gentleman winning second gentlemen's prize each scored 171. At the finish of the games the prizes were presented by Mr. D. Buchan, the President of the Bournemouth Pharmaceutical Association. The winners were:-Ladies-1, Mrs. Followes; 2, Mrs. Lightwood; consolation, Miss Knowles. Gentlemen1, Mr. Ballard; 2, Mr. Veale; consolation, Mr. Finlayson. The two first prizes were given by the Bournemouth Pharmaceutical Association, and the others by the managers of Messrs. Boots, Ltd., and Messrs. Watson and Loveday. The arrangements for the whist drive and the catering were satisfactorily carried out by the management of the Gervis Hall restaurant.

BELFAST.-The opening meeting of the winter session of the Chemists' and Druggists Society of Ireland was held on October 22, the PRESIDENT (Mr. Suffern) in the chair. The PRESIDENT, in his opening remarks, extended a hearty welcome to the members and lady friends, and said he was pleased to see such a large number present, and hoped they would all have a pleasant evening. An enjoyable programme was then given, the following artists taking part: Mrs. Martin, Miss L. Martin, Mr. Beggs, Mr. Scott, Mr. I. T. Hogg, Mr. Fawcett, Mr. Birrell, Mr. H. Belshaw, and Professor Hercat, who did some very smart conjuring tricks. The accompanists were Miss I. Scott, A.L.C.M., and Miss Galway, A.L.C.M. On the motion of Mr. RANKIN, seconded by Mr. STOREY, a vote of thanks was passed to the artists who contributed to the programme. A similar vote was passed to the Social Committee on the motion of Mr. CAPSE, seconded by Mr. SuMYTH, for their excellent arrangements, and the way everything was carried out, which was replied to by Mr. NEVIN. The singing of the National Anthem brought a most enjoyable evening to a close.

LONDON.-In connection with the London District Branches of the Amalgamated Society of Pharmacists, Drug and Chemical Workers a whist drive was held at Slater's. Baltic House, Leadenhall Street, E.C., on the evening of October 23. The assembly consisted almost exclusively of members and those intimately associated with pharmacy. Amongst the gathering were over twenty pioneer members, largely representative of those responsible for the foundation of the union, particu larly the Retail and Public Service Sections. During the refreshment interval brief addresses were delivered by Mr. HERBERT SKINNER, the President, and Mr. E. N. LLOYD, General Seoretary. Mrs. Skinner kindly presented the prizes, and a hearty

vote of thanks was accorded Miss Bridges for so ably and successfully arranging this most enjoyable "social evening" for London employees.

MANCHESTER.-The session of the Manchester Pharmaceutical Association opened on October 15 with a whist drive and concert held in the Midland Hotel. Eighty-five ladies and gentlemen were present.-After a reception by the PRESIDENT Mr. A. Hershberg), whist began at 7.15. There was an interval for refreshments at 830, after which a number of songs were rendered by Mrs. Breese, Miss Redford, and Messrs. Franklin, and Chapman. These items were greatly appreciated by the audience and heartily applauded. At the conclusion of the musical part of the programme a hearty vote of thanks was accorded to the artists and the accompanist (Mr. M. Matz). Play was then resumed and continued until twenty hands had been played. The prize-winners were:-Ladies: Mrs. Hulme, Mrs. Eastwood, Miss Walker, and Mrs. Grier; gentlemen: Messrs. A. J. Pidd, Craig, Chadwick, Swinn. Everything passed off most successfully, and it was generally agreed to be one of the most enjoyable socials ever arranged by the Association. On the motion of Mr. BELL, a hearty vote of thanks was accorded to the President, the Secretary (Mr. T. Miller), and the Entertainments Committee for organising so successful an entertainment."

SOUTHAMPTON.-The first of a series of whist drives promoted by the Southampton Pharmaceutical Association was held. with great success last week, the committee responsible for the arrangements including members of the Assistants' Assoaiation. The prizes were presented by Mrs. Jewell, wife of the popular President. During the evening Mr. Jewell was presented with a framed photograph of those who attended the summer outing in the New Forest. In the past the Southampton Pharmaceutical Association has advocated and practisod the coming together of employers and employees, and it is realised that at the present time, more than ever, good relations should be cultivated between them.

WESTERN PHARMACISTS' ASSOCIATION.-The annual reunion of this Association was held at Pinoli's Restaurant, Wardour Street, on the evening of October 23.-The PRFSIDENT (Mr. H. S. Watson) and Mrs. WATSON welcomed the guests, who numbered about ninety. Several Past-Presidents of the Association were present with their ladies. To be noticed were Messrs. C. T. Allen, R. Brittain, J. T. Barrett, W. Browne, A. M. Ellerington, H. Martin, C. A. Noble, G. A. Tocher, E. White, and W. Wilkinson. The evening began with a well-served supper, during which a musical programme was rendered by talented artistes. At the close of the supper, tables were cleared for progressive whist, which lasted just long enough to be thoroughly enjoyable. Miss Forbes and Miss Mead gained the first and second ladies' prizes, while Mr. Sturton, who played the feminine rôle, was awarded the ladies' consolation prize. Mr. Healy gained gentlemen's first prize, Mr. Bell and Mr. Ross being second and consolation winners respectively. The Association's Bowls Cup, presented by Mr. Shirtliff, was handed to the winner. Mr. Feltwell, during the evening. Mr. W. Wilkinson, who was runner-up in the competition, was the recipient of a handsome silver rose-bowl. The reunion was a success in every way, and Mr. W. Browne, who was responsible for the arrangements, and the President of the Association are to be congratulated on a most enjoyable evening. At the close of the evening the President, Mr. H. S. Watson, addressing a few words to those present, reminded his hearers that co-operation amongst chemists is now an urgent necessity, and he urged them to procure better attendances at ordinary meetings in order that this ideal may be realised.

ORGANISATION OF ASSISTANTS
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BLACKBURN.-A meeting of members of the Blackburn Branch of the National Association of Chemists' Assistants was held at Chapel Street School on October 22. Mr. FRED LAW presided, and an explanatory address on the work of the Assooiation was given by Mr. G. LIVESEY, President of the National Association of Chemists' Assistants. Several questions were asked at the close.

BOURNEMOUTH.-The monthly meeting of the Bournemouth branch of the National Association of Chemists' Assistants was held on October 16 at St. Peter's Hall. Mr. L. WATSON took the chair. The principal business was the discussion of the report of the executive meeting. The scale of

minimum wages, as suggested by the Executive, was agreed to, with one or two exceptions. The meeting heartily endorsed the action of the Executive in proceeding to register the N.A.C.A. as a trade union.

DERBY.-The first general meeting of the Derby and District Branch of the National Association of Chemists' Assistants was held on Wednesday afternoon, October 22, at King's Café, Derby. The minimum wage scheme, as approved by the National Execu tive, was discussed at some length, and with a few suggested additions was approved. It was decided to support the National Executive's decision to register as a trade union. Other business, mainly of a local character, was transacted. Several new members were enrolled. In the evening a very successful whist drive was held, about sixty members and friends being present, including several employers. During the interval several musical selections were ably rendered by well-known local artistes. Votes of thanks to "Our Visitors,' "" and the "Artistes" terminated the proceedings, everyone having spent an enjoyable evening.

HULL-A meeting of the local branch of the National Association of Chemists' Assistants was held on October 22, the PRESIDENT (Mr. L. Sherwood Selle) in the chair. Six now members were elected. The suggestion to register the N.A.C.A. under the Trade Union Acts was approved. Arrangements were made to hold the Christmas Social and Reunion on Monday, December 22.-The PRESIDENT then gave his inaugural address on "The Status of the Chemists' Assistant,' in which he showed the factors which determine a person's real status in life, irrespective of money or aristocratic relationships. The importance of education to the budding pharmacist was insisted on, the members being urged, not only to acquire the necessary knowledge of chemistry, pharmacy, etc., required for qualification, but also to make themselves familiar with whatever side lines are dealt in by the business in which they are engaged-e.g., photography, veterinary medicine, knowledge of the treatment of hair and foot troubles, an understanding of manicure. Two subjects, however, are necessary to all assistants-first aid and an acquaintance with the simpler details of bookkeeping: how to check an invoice, to deal with returns, to write ordinary business letters.-A vote of thanks, on the motion of Messrs. F. PALMER and W. BARTON, concluded the meeting.

IRELAND. No further developments have occurred in connection with the assistants' demands in Ireland. Mr. J. W. Kelly, Secretary of the Irish National Council of the National Amalgamated Union of Shop Assistants, Warehousemen, and Clerks (Chemists' Section), in the course of a letter referring to the report of the Federation of Chemists' (Employers) Association which has appeared in our columns, states that the explanation given by the last-mentioned body for their refusal to accept the assistants' offer of arbitration is very misleading. Clause 10 of the arbitration award reads as follows:-"This award shall be binding upon both employers and employees until three months after a notice of withdrawal shall have been given by either the Employers' Association or the Employees' Trade Union to the other." We honoured this clause, states Mr. Kelly, and served notice, which expired on July 31, 1919.

LONDON. A meeting of the London Pharmacists' Branch of the Drug Union was held at the Progressive Pharmacy Club on October 21. Intimation was received of the formation of a strong "West Suburban" London Branch, and of the work of the staff of the Drug and Chemical Department of the Army and Navy Stores in their grading and fixing of wage minima for the whole department. Arrangements are rapidly maturing for the appointment of a London Sub-Organiser for the Retail and Public Service Branches, and for the formation of a Divisional Council for London, representative of every section of the drug industry. The Branch decided to support the nomination of non-proprietor candidates for the 1920 Pharmaceutical Council Election, and the Secre tary was instructed to communicate with the Scottish Divisional Council, with a view to securing a co-ordination of effort on the part of all who are members of the Pharmaceutical Society.

Exportation of Edible Oils. The Board of Trade announce that as from October 22 all edible oils have been removed from List A of prohibited exports, except the following:-Coconut oil, groundnut oil, and palm kernel oil. Of these latter the exportation remains prohibited to all destinations, except under licence from the Export Licence Department, 1, Queen Anne's Gate Buildings, London, S.W. 1.

INSURANCE NEWS.

Cardiff.-Insurance Committee.

The Insurance Committee for the city of Cardiff at a meeting held on October 21, appointed Mr. A. H. M. Purse, M.P.S., as Clerk to the Committee in succession to Mr. Cecil G. Brown, who has been appointed Town Clerk of Cardiff. Mr. Purse has been Administrative Officer to the Committee and Superintendent of the Welsh Prescription Bureau since March, 1917. Previously to that he was Superintendent to the North of England Joint Insurance Committee Prescription Bureau. He is the son of Mr. A. D. Purse, chemist, of Sunderland, and was himself. for some years in business as pharmacist in that town. Kent. Insurance Committee.-Complaint Against a Chemist. At a meeting of the Kent Insurance Committee October 22 the Pharmaceutical Service Sub-Committee reported details of a complaint against a chemist for delay in making up a prescription. In investigating the complaint, it transpired that there had been an overcharge for a bottle, and it was recommended that the chemist be informed that dispensing prescriptions should not be delayed on account of the non-payment of the deposit unless such deposit was specially asked for when the prescription was left, and that he be informed also that the Committee took a serious view of the overcharge, and that he be censured. The report was adopted.

Kesteven (Lincs.).—Insurance Committee.

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At the meeting of the Kesteven Insurance Committee October 25 a complaint was received from an insured person that he had been refused treatment by a doctor, on the grounds that he was a railwayman and a striker. The incident happened on October 3. The doctor wrote to the Committee stating that the man was not seriously ill when he called for treatment, and he told him that as his section of the community (railwaymen) had deliberately withheld their service, he considered that he (the doctor) was justified in withholding his medical service. The Committee recommended that the sum of £3 123. incurred necessarily by the patient be recovered from the doctor and paid to the man.

London. Insurance Committee.

At the meeting of the London Insurance Committee at Spring Gardens on October 23, there was a brief discussion regarding a report of the Medical Benefit Sub-Committee in which it was mentioned that Messrs. Pritchard and Constance, of Haymarket, had asked to be allowed to withdraw from the list of persons supplying drugs and appliances. Messrs. Pritchard and Constance, it was stated, undertook to supply drugs and appliances in 1916, but had submitted no prescriptions to the Committee for payment during the period in which their name had been included in the list. The firm, in submitting their resig nation, stated that they had regarded the many hundreds of prescriptions they had dispensed as a privilege, and as their contribution in kind towards the general welfare of the community. Now peace had been concluded the firm felt their self-imposed obligation had been discharged. The Sub-Committee added that they were sure the Committee would desire to recognise the public spirit of the firm, and recommended that they should be permitted to withdraw, and that they should be thanked for the services rendered to insured persons without payment. Mr. L. N. Bowden moved that the matter should be referred back. The refusal of the firm to send in an account only meant that the money saved would swell the balance of the "floating sixpence "and would go to the medical profession. He was sure the doctors would be too proud to receive money in that way. He suggested that the firm should be invited to submit an account, and it would then be open to them to dispose of the money for the benefit of the insured person if so desired. -A member of the Committee said both members of the firm served during the whole period of the war, and their efforts were in no way put forward from a financial point of view. That never entered their minds.-Dr. Richmond urged that it would be discourteous to reopen the matter. They could not compel anyone to receive money they did not wish to have.Mr. Coysh said that it would be very ungracious to carry the amendment. If they pressed this matter there would be endless difficulty. Whatever this sum might be, if the doctors benefited to an infinitesimal extent the insured person, in any case, would benefit to an even smaller extent. These people had done a nice action in a very nice way. It seemed as if the long-settled old trouble between insured person and the medical profession was being revived.-Mr. Bowden said nothing was further from his mind. He had fully expected the doctors would support him.-After further discussion, the Chairman of the Sub-Committee agreed that the matter should be further considered, and the amendment was withdrawn.-The Medical Benefit Sub-Committee submitted a lengthy report

as to the closing hour at chemists' establishments. They appointed a section to investigate any complaints that might arise with regard to difficulties experienced by insured persons in obtaining medicines urgently required after 8 p.m. The Section reported that attention was directed to Bethnal Green and Battersea. They asked practitioners whether the pharmaceutical service was adequate, and it was found no necessity existed for the provision of a special dispensing service in Bethnal Green, as they were satisfied the chemists in that area were prepared to keep open until, say, 8.30 p.m., and to dispense urgent prescriptions at all times. This was not the case in Battersea, where the facilities provided were not all that could be desired. A conference of chemists was convened. At first they seemed unfavourably disposed towards the establishment of a rota for dispensing urgent prescriptions, but after discussion it was agreed that a rota consisting of ten chemists should be established every night from 8 to 9 p.m. for prescriptions marked " urgent." Complaints from practitioners in Hackney, Islington, Finsbury, St. Pancras, Hampstead, Paddington, and Westminster were considered, but no special action was considered necessary. The Ministry of Health was informed that no necessity existed for a scheme for the county area as a whole. as a large number of chemists resided over their places of business and were usually available and willing to dispense urgent prescriptions. Any complaints from insured persons would be dealt with as they arose.-The report was adopted. without discussion.

PROFITEERING ACT; NOTES AND NEWS.

Barnet. Non-Attendance of Complainants. On October 23 the Local Tribunal met to hear three complaints of alleged profiteering against local tradesmen. The informers failed to attend or communicate, and the clerk was instructed to ascertain if there was a penalty under the Act for frivolous complaints. If this is a correct report, our comment on it is that it seems incredible that the clerk should not be in possession of a copy of the Act, since then he would have known that while the Act does not seem to be applicable to the cases in point, it provides that any complainant who "knowingly and recklessly furnishes any information or makes any representation which is false in any particular "is liable to fine or imprisonment.

Bognor.-Camphorated Oil and Morphine Lozenges.-Before the Bognor (Sussex) Profiteering Act Committee on October 22 a complaint was made of a charge by a local chemist for camphorated oil and morphine lozenges, which, it was alleged, worked out at 47 per cent. over the current prices in other shops in the town. Canon Sacre said that before they dealt with the case they should know the wholesale price of the lozenges, and the clerk replied that all they had to do was to ascertain the quality and prices ruling. A committee was appointed to investigate the complaint.

Chelmsford. At a sitting of the Chelmsford Profiteering Tribunal on October 21 Mr. W. Deacon (a member) produced a small block of camphor, which he said was bought at a local chemist's for 6d. Mrs. Hick said that on the previous day she bought a block for 1d., and thought that too much. It was decided to ask the purchaser to put the complaint into writing.

Croydon. Naphthalene Balls.-A complaint brought before the Croydon Profiteering Tribunal on October 20 had reference to a charge of lid. per oz. by a firm of chemists for naphthalene balls, and the complainant said that she had seen the article sold at 4d. per lb. It was stated that the wholesale price was 72d. per lb., last August it was 92d., and last February 10d., and the Chemists' Retail Association suggested that the price should be 1d. per oz., although some chemists charged only 1d. It was decided to investigate the complaint.

Derby. Powdered Tragacanth.-At their first meeting for the investigation of complaints, the Derby Profiteering Committee had before them a case in which a charge of 1s. 44d. had been made at one of Messrs. Boots' stores for an ounce of tragacanth, which the complainant alleged was procurable before the war for 5d. an ounce, and during the war for 1s. 2d. He could not understand why it should have gone up d. since the war, though he could not suggest what a fair price would be. On behalf of the company, Mr. Waring (a director) contended that the average retail charge prior to the war was 8d. per ounce, though Boots sold the drug then at 6d. The present wholesale price was 19s. 6d. per pound, so that in retailing at 1s. 44d. per ounce they did not obtain the same rate of profit as when they purchased at 5s. per pound and sold at the old retail figure. Even if 100 per cent. profit was made, that being the basis before the war, there was

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no profiteering, as sellers were entitled to the same rate of profit as then. In dismissing the case, the Chairman expressed the opinion that the complainant was justified in concluaing that he had been charged too much, having regard to the great difference between the pre-war and the current price. Secretary of the Derby Pharmaceutical Association, Mr. Riley pointed out that the chemists were not to blame for the rise in prices, and that publication of the details of this case would result in other petty complaints from the public. Members of the Committee rejoined that publicity would help to educate the public as to the marked difference between pre-war and present prices, and that so long as retailers were prepared to pay any charge made by wholesalers so long would the latter be in a position to profiteer.

Ealing. Camphor.-A case of great interest to chemists was heard before the Ealing Profiteering Committee at the Town Hall on Thursday, October 23. The complainant said that he was charged 6d. per square for two squares of camphor by Mr. Armitage, chemist, of South Ealing. Mr. Armitage admitted the charge, and said that in his opinion the price was a very fair one. He produced current lists from the wholesale drug houses to show that the present cost price of camphor was 20s. 4d. per pound. The minimum retail price list was next shown, and here it gave camphor to retail at 2s. per ounce which was the price charged in this case. Mr. Armitage next showed that he was now getting a less rate of profit out of the sale of camphor than in pre-war days, when he paid about 1s. 8d. per pound for it, and sold it at 4d. per ounce. He also said that Mr. Marns, the Hon. Secretary of the Ealing and District Pharmacists' Association, 'was present in the room, and that he would be pleased to give evidence in support. The Chairman said that as they were agreed that there had been no profiteering by the retailer, they would not trouble to call Mr. Marns, but would dismiss the case against Mr. Armitage. They were agreed, however, to ask the Board of Trade to investigate the profits of the wholesaler.

East Ham.-Complaint against Boots, Ltd.-A complainant stated before the East Ham Profiteering Tribunal that he was charged 1s. 6d. for a baby's feeding bottle at the Upton branch of Messrs. Boots, and that he afterwards found 1s. 3d. marked on the box. When he returned to the shop the acting manager rubbed out the 1s. 3d. and wrote 1s. 6d. in its place. It was admitted that the charge should have been 1s. 3d. The tribunal ordered the 3d. to be refunded, and legal proceedings are to follow.

Hampstead.-Badger Hair Shaving Brush-On October 22 Mr. E. Beaton, pharmacist, England's Lane, was brought before the Committee on a complaint of having charged 12s. 6d. for a badger hair shaving brush which cost him 7s. 6d. After hearing the defence, for which an agent of the C.D.A. appeared, the Committee dismissed the complaint.

Lambeth.-Refund on a Bottle. On October 17 the Local Tribunal ordered Boots. Ltd., to refund 12d. on a bottle for which 3d. had been charged. It was explained for the defence that Messrs. Boots were losing £800 a year on a department which they had opened for sterilising used returned bottles, and the Committee allowed 1d. for sterilisation.

Lynn. Acetic Acid.—At Lynn Profiteering Tribunal on October 24 a woman complained that she had been charged at the rate of 2s. per pint for acetic acid, when other shops were selling it at 1s. 3d. per pint. She said she went into a chemist's shop for half a pint of acetic acid to make vinegar with for pickling. She was served with the acid, and the chemist said that, owing to the strike, he would have to charge her 1s. for the acid. She told him that she had only paid 9d. a week before. The chemist told the Tribunal that the complainant was served with half a pint Imperial measure. He purchased the acid at 1s. 2d. per lb. of 16 oz., and taking the specific gravity into consideration that would mean it cost him 1s. 62d. for 20 oz., or a pint Imperial measure. The cost of carriage and the cost of returning empties added another 2d. per pint, so that the acid cost him 1s. 8d. The half-pint of 10 oz. supplied to the woman consequently cost 10 d., and she was charged 1s. for it. That, he contended, was not profiteering. After consideration in private, the Chairman announced that the Tribunal had unanimously decided to dismiss the case. At the same time they could not help feeling that the woman was quite justified in bringing the case forward.

North London.-Pepper.-On October 27, Jacob Lee, grocer and oilman, Dalston, appeared before Mr. Waddy, the North London magistrate, to answer a summons at the instance of the Local Tribunal under the Profiteering Act. The defendant was alleged to have charged 5d. per oz. for pepper, when 22d. would have yielded a reasonable profit. For the defence it was stated that Mrs. Lee was under the impression that 4s. 2d. per lb. was the wholesale price, the pepper on a former occasion having been

by a clerical error invoiced at 4s. 2d. Mr. Waddy sent the case back for reconsideration by the local Tribunal.

The C.D.A. and the Profiteering Act. The Anti-Cutting Record for October intimates that a special meeting of the members of the Chemists' Defence Association will be held on November 26, at St. Bride Institute, Ludgate Circus, London, E.C., at 2.30 p.m., when the following addition to Rule 1 will be presented by the directors for adoption:-"Members shall be entitled, upon complying with and subject to these Rules: (i) To legal defence against prosecution for alleged offences against the Profiteering Act, 1919 (or any renewing, re-enacting, or amending that Act) if in the opinion of the Association's officers and solicitors the member is not guilty of the alleged offence, or a defence would be in the general interests of the members of the Association." In consideration of the incalculable protective value to pharmacists in retail business, of membership in the C.D.A., we are entirely of Mr. Keall's opinion in his statement at Liverpool on October 22, that it is incredible stupidity and rashness on the part of any retail chemist to remain a nonmember of an Association which insures him against so many of the inevitable risks of carrying on the business of a chemist and druggist.

The P.A.T.A. and the Profiteering Act. It is announced in the Anti-Cutting Record for October that the Council of the P.A.T.A. have resolved to maintain their principles intact, unless they are compelled by force majeure to modify them. The rules of the Association therefore stand, including the one which stipulates that new prices come into force as soon as they are officially published in The Pharmaceutical Journal and The Chemist and Druggist, or in the Anti-Cutting Record, as the case may be. The rare cases in which special arrangements are made in regard to old stock labelled with old prices are merely exceptions to the general rule, and it is only in such cases, duly published in the Protected List, that any departure from the main rule will be countenanced.

Wednesbury.-French Chalk. Before the Wednesbury Profiteering Committee on Monday last the first complaint under the Act was brought up. The complaint was lodged against Mr. Morris, chemist, Wednesbury, by Mr. Fred Lyster, Mellish Road, Walsall, and Secretary of the Bridge Foundry Co., Wednesbury, who purchased 4 lb. of French chalk from Mr. Morris for 3s. 6d., which price, he alleged, was an excessive one, as he could buy it wholesale e at 17s. per cwt., and had actually purchased the same chalk in a 2-lb. lot from Wednesbury at 5d. per lb., which, he said, was the same quality chalk as that supplied him by Mr. Morris. Mr. Morris put in an account which showed that the wholesale price as paid by him was 6d. per lb. He (Mr. Morris) had also bought chalk in Wednesbury, for which in one case he was charged 6d. per 1⁄2 lb., and in Birmingham he had paid 8d. for the same quantity. He intimated that chemists only stocked the best quality chalk, but it was possible to procure a cheaper article from a drysalter's. The complainant was asked if he had samples of the chalk at 17s. per cwt., and also that for which he had paid 5d. for in Wednesbury, to which he replied that he had not. Mr. Lyster deposed to buying chalk in Wednesbury at 10d. for 2 lb,, but Mr. Morris also stated that he had also bought some chalk from the same shop, since the complaint, which had cost him 44d. the halfpound. The Committee thought that it was a proper case to bring forward, but they had fully considered the evidence, which proved that there were several grades of chalk, and also pointed to the fact that in this case the best had been supplied and that 6d. was paid for it wholesale. They therefore did not think the charge was unreasonable, and dismissed the complaint. Mr. R. A. Tench appeared for the Chemists' Defence Association, London.

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Yarmouth.-Pears' Soap. At the Yarmouth Profiteering Tribunal, on October 24, the Secretary reported a complaint against a chemist for charging 7d. for a tablet of Pears' soap, which could be obtained at another trader's for 6d. wrappers were shown, one of which had the price obliterated, while on the soap itself 6d. was stamped. The Secretary said he found that other shops charged 6d. and 7d. It was therefore decided to take no action.

INQUEST.

Hydrocyanic Acid.-At the inquest at Ilford on October 22 on William Reid Watson, chemist and druggist, 1, Market Parade, Chadwell Heath, a verdict of "Suicide during temporary insanity" was returned. Deceased sent his wife and servant out on October 20. While they were away he took hydrocyanic acid, and on the return of the servant was found by her dead. on the floor of a room in the house.

MISCELLANEOUS AND GENERAL.

American Chamber of Commerce in London and Import Restrictions.-The American Chamber of Commerce in London recently sent to the Board of Trade the following resolution: "While it is understood that the British Government is fully justified in protecting home industries to the greatest extent, we venture to suggest that consumers also should be considered; and inasmuch as salicylates, phenacetin, vanillin, phenolphthalein, coumarin, etc., have practically doubled in price since the import restrictions were in force, the American Chamber of Commerce in London would respectfully suggest that licences be more freely granted commensurate with the laws of supply and demand, as quantities now being manufactured here are far too inadequate to meet the demand." The Board of Trade have replied that licences for the chemicals mentioned are now being granted when home production is not sufficient for the country's requirements.

Love-Sickness.-The editor of the Medical Press, in the issue of that journal for October 22, discusses in a very interesting manner the state of "being in love,' or "love-sickness," which he describes as a malady having a definite pathology and symp. tomatology. Love-sickness, in its intenser forms, he says, is a veritable madness, and a partial disintegration of the mental! personality. That the state of being in love' is recognised generally as an actual disease is evidenced by its popular namelove-sickness. The disorder bears some resemblance to infective fever: it is a kind of infection. After a shorter or longer incubation period--absent in the very susceptible-the victim becomes aware of a strange alteration in his feelings The attack may be short or long, mild or virulent occasionally even fatal. Though the body is apt to suffer secondarily, in the shape of loss of appetite and sleep, and the like, the disorder is essentially one of the mind."

an

Prosecutions for the Sale of Borax.-In, the Anti-Cutting Record for October, Mr. W. Johnston, the Secretary of the C.D.A., directs special attention to the legal aspects of the sale of borax apropos of recent prosecutions for the sale of borax contaminated with arsenic in excess of the B.P. limits. In one of the cases in which a conviction took place, the inspector who made the purchase simply asked for borax, without specifying the kind, and was supplied with the commercial variety labelled "Borax." Mr. Johnston says the contention of the C.D.A. is" that there is no illegality in selling commercial borax which may not be quite up to B.P. standard, always assuming that purified borax has not been asked for, and that the article is not labelled Pure or Purified Borax.'" It is recommended, however, that the vendor should take care to ascertain that the borax is not for internal use, although in most cases in which a 2 or 4 oz. quantity is ordered the presumption is that it is for cleansing or other non-medical purposes. It is pointed out that if vendors will exercise due care along the above lines a suitable case for appeal is sure to arise sooner or later.

Health Administration.-A booklet entitled 'A Review of Health Administration in Cheshire with Reference to the Ministry of Health Act, 1919,' has been written by Mr. Frank T. West, clerk to the Insurance Committee for the County Palatine of Chester. The author does not pretend to touch upon every aspect of the subject; it is too wide to be fully dealt with in the space at his disposal, but he lays stress on points that may stimulate interest and promote lively concern in the matter of National Health. "The Insurance Act," he says, "has consolidated the medical profession, and made pharmaeists more than purveyors of Parisian perfumes, patent medicines, and palatable tooth pastes,' while pharmacy to-day has taken its rightful place in public health, and research and laboratory work is enabling it to become the righthand maiden of the medical practitioner. A closer, more sympathetic attitude between them has resulted in benefit to health generally." An appendix to the booklet is a "Statement of Health Organisations Operating in Cheshire (Administrative Area)," and a large chart for a suggested scheme of organisation of a public health service is provided.

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Sphagnum Moss Cultivation in America.-The sphagnum moss as a surgical dressing was introduced during the war, large quantities of it being collected in Scotland and Ireland for military hospitals, where it was used in the form of surgical pads. The utility of the moss for this purpose was noted in America, and during 1916 samples were collected in Canada and sent to England for approval. This was obtained and the Canadian Red Cross, having taken up the work of collecting and preparing the moss, received an order for 20,000,000 of the pads. When the United States entered the war the American Red Cross became identified with the collection of sphagnum moss from the huge moss-beds of the Pacific Coast, the initial order of pads for the American Army being half a

million. Since the conclusion of the Red Cross work the commercial development of the moss industry has been undertaken, and a flourishing concern is engaged in the manufacture of various kinds of hospital pads and similar articles. In the Pharmaceutical Era it is stated that the supply of moss is prac tically endless, and what was formerly a waste product and a nuisance has become an article of commerce and a blessing to humanity.

Agricultural Research. New laboratories erected in connection with the Rothamsted Experimental Station at Har penden were opened on October 20 by Sir Arthur Boscawen, Parliamentary Under-Secretary for Agriculture. Professor H. E. Armstrong, who presided at the opening ceremony, said that the new improvements had cost £26,000, of which £10,000 was given by the Agricultural Department from the Development Fund. After reviewing the history of the Institution, which was founded by Sir John Lawes in 1843, the Professor stated that the Board of Agriculture had decided to place a new Department of Plant Pathology, including Entomology, under the control of the Lawes Trust. Plans for a special building for the new department were now under consideration. Rothamsted would, therefore, afford very special opportunities, and it should take the highest rank in the future, not only as a centre of advanced scientific inquiry, but as a post-graduate training school for leaders of agricultural practice. It was important that this should be understood by all who had the welfare of agriculture at heart, so that workers of a high order of ability might be attracted and also be assured of the necessary financial support. It was the ambition of the Trust Committee that a constant stream of able men should be brought under the influence of the school and its traditions,

The Consultative Council, appointed by the Minister of Health to advise on questions relating to medical and allied services, held its first meeting a few days ago. There was a full attendance of members, among them Sir William GlynJones. Dr. Addison (the Minister of Health), speaking as President of the Council, said their chief duty would be to advise him on questions of policy in the formative stage. This would bring them into the counsels of the Minister before decisions were taken. The Council, he said, must be in a position to keep him in touch with the medical profession throughout the country, and to help him to carry the profession with him in the policy which he adopted. He agreed with the suggestion that had been made that periodical statements should be issued to the Press of the nature of the problems referred to the Council, and of the progress made with their deliberatione, and he hoped that this arrangement would encourage discussion and criticism. He asked the Council at once to consider a reference which would enable them to tell him what, in their view, should be the ideal system of medical and allied services towards which the Ministry should work. The Council held a preliminary discussion of the principles to be observed in the future developments of medical and allied services upon which the Minister had asked them to advise.

The Music of Perfumes.-Ernest Newman, writing in the Evening Standard, deals with the combination of music with colour, as illustrated in the performance of Scriabine's "Prometheus" at Queen's Hall, and suggests that we should go beyond this and combine music with odours. He states that Piesse tried to work out scientific correspondences between. sounds and odours, contending that as there are high notes and low notes, so there are high odours and low odours. He associated height or depth of "tone" in a perfume with high or low volatility. "Substances with a very low degree of volatility are known as strong odours; those with a high degree of volatility are the weak and delicate odours. Sound-waves that diffuse themselves the most slowly produce the loudest tones; the odour waves that diffuse themselves the most slowly produce the most powerful odours." Piesse arranged natural and synthetic perfumes in order of volatility, and produced an octave of odours." He also gave this formula for a bouquet corresponding to the chord of C major: santal, geranium, acacia, orangeflower, and camphor. Mr. Newman thinks it would be delightodour-organ," ful if someone would invent an " corresponding to the present colour organ, and if someone else would write a symphony, in which the emotional appeal of each phase was heightened by the association of it with perfume."

The Dutch Weekly "Olien en Vetten."-We learn that the commercial-economic department of the Dutch trade periodical Oliën en Vetten, a technical and economic weekly for the Netherlands and colonies, will be considerably enlarged with respect to information concerning oil, fat, soap. paints, and allied products, and that it will be placed in the hands of a special sub-editor. Dr. F. W. T. Hunger, of Amsterdam, will continue to edit the technical and scientific columns, while Dr. V. van Peski, barrister at Rotterdam, who is also the scoretary